Elmer Gantry's Velvet Opera

British Psychedelic Rock Band

Elmer Gantry's Velvet Opera, also known simply as Velvet Opera, was a British rock band active in the late 1960s. The group was formed by singer Dave Terry, later known as Elmer Gantry, along with Richard Hudson, John Ford, and John Pearson. They were known for their eclectic mix of psychedelic rock and a flamboyant stage presence that included wearing Victorian-era clothing. Their self-titled debut album "Elmer Gantry's Velvet Opera" was released in 1967 and included the single "Flames," which became their best-known track. Despite critical acclaim and a cult following, the band did not achieve significant commercial success and underwent several lineup changes before eventually disbanding. Richard Hudson and John Ford would later go on to form the band Hudson-Ford and also became members of The Strawbs. Elmer Gantry's Velvet Opera left a mark on the psychedelic rock scene with their innovative sound and theatrical approach to performance.